A student catches her professor using AI and requests a partial refund of her tuition. The university soon thereafter introduces new AI policies to avoid such issues in the future. The university stated that it “welcomes the use of artificial intelligence to enhance all aspects of teaching, research, and operations.”
Artificial intelligence plays an important role in many areas of life. Now the “New York Times” reports in an article (possibly behind a paywall) that a student is said to have caught her professor using AI.
While many universities and professors now use AI as a tool, some students feel this is unfair, especially when they themselves are prohibited from using AI or feel they are paying for human instruction but receiving AI-generated content instead. For this reason, a student has now requested a refund of her tuition from her university, but with little success.
Student accuses her professor of using AI, requests her tuition refund
The article in the New York Times reports that the student Ella Stapleton complained that professors use AI for teaching materials and feedback while students themselves are not allowed to use AI. She expresses dissatisfaction over paying high tuition for human instruction but receiving AI-generated content instead. Stapleton is quoted as saying she wants her money back because she does not want to pay for AI-generated content.
Stapleton filed a formal complaint with Northeastern’s business school, citing the unannounced use of artificial intelligence as well as other issues with his teaching style, and requested a refund of the tuition for this course.
As a quarter of the total bill for the semester, this would amount to more than $8,000. The total costs for a whole year at Northeastern are according to official university statements $32,435. However, she is only requesting her money back for one course.
What was the outcome? After submitting her complaint to Northeastern, Stapleton met with a number of university officials. In May 2025, the day after her graduation ceremony, the officials informed her that she would not be receiving her tuition money back.
Professor admits to using AI and university introduces new AI policies
What is the professor’s response? Rick Arrowood, her professor, confirmed the use of AI. He explained that he had uploaded his teaching files and materials to several AI tools, among other things, to give his presentations a “modern look.”
However, the current situation makes it clear to him that one should handle AI more cautiously and inform students when and how AI tools are used in class.
What is the university’s response? The university has also actively responded to the incident: Northeastern recently issued a formal AI policy that requires citation and a review of results for “accuracy and appropriateness” when using AI systems. A university spokesperson stated that it “welcomes the use of artificial intelligence to enhance all aspects of teaching, research, and operations.”
Many students drop out of their studies due to financial stress. Therefore, some universities are investing in financial education. And this is already paying off for students who are managing their finances much more carefully: In one country, so many stressed Gen Z students are falling behind that universities must take action
